Lawrenson: Liverpool need to improve in every department

The Reds have struggled this season, and they fell out of the Champions League this week following their 1-1 home draw with FC Basel.

They look to kick-start their Premier League campaign this weekend, as they face rivals Manchester United at Old Trafford on Sunday, but another loss for Brendan Rodgers’ men could leave the Merseyside club in 13th place, nine points off the top four.

It has been suggested that the Reds will look to change their fortunes in the January transfer window by strengthening some vital parts of their squad. A new goalkeeper is said to be a priority, whilst the club are reportedly looking at offloading Mario Balotelli so as to bring in a new forward. However, after spending highly over the summer, it is hard to see the Reds board willing to splash the cash in January - especially with the inflated market that occurs during the mid-season window.

Regardless of whether Rodgers is given money to spend, it is hard to believe the Reds will be able to attract the quality of player they need, with Champions League football next season looking less likely with each passing week. And, judging by the signings made over the summer, fans will not trust the Northern Irish coach to sufficiently strengthen the side - leaving him with more pressure on his back.

While clever use of the transfer window could be considered a quick fix for the Anfield-based club, Liverpool legend Mark Lawrenson was quoted by the Liverpool Echo as suggesting that buying players will not fix anything, as the club need to strengthen in every department.

Billy Hawkins

Billy is a freelance writer who contributes to various sites concerning football. Known to possess an obsession with statistics, Eastern European club sides, and Victorian football, he focuses upon the untapped potential of the Football League in the belief it is more enjoyable than the Premier League.